FBI Warns of Violent Extremist Groups Targeting Children

Law enforcement agency investigating over 350 subjects linked to nihilistic online networks exploiting minors

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The FBI has issued a warning about a sharp increase in activity by the so-called '764' group and other nihilistic violent online networks that are targeting children, particularly young females. The agency says it is now investigating over 350 subjects around the U.S. connected to these networks, which often groom victims by establishing trusting relationships before manipulating and coercing them into harmful behavior.

Why it matters

The FBI's warning highlights the growing threat of online extremist groups exploiting vulnerable children and teens, leading to serious mental health issues and even criminal acts. This issue impacts communities nationwide as the perpetrators come from diverse backgrounds but share a common goal of sowing social unrest and undermining societal institutions.

The details

According to the FBI's letter, the '764' group and related networks often target underage female victims between 10-17 years old who have limited support systems and easy access to the internet. The perpetrators, often males under 25, groom victims by first establishing trust before coercing them into escalating harmful behavior intended to shame and isolate them. The FBI says all 56 of its field offices are involved in the investigation into these networks.

  • On February 19, 2026, the FBI issued an open letter to parents, guardians, and caregivers about the threat.
  • In late November 2025, FBI Director Kash Patel said arrests connected to the '764' group were up around 500% from the previous year.

The players

FBI

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the primary federal law enforcement agency in the United States.

Bradley Cadenhead

A 15-year-old from Texas who was sentenced to 80 years in prison for creating and distributing child sex abuse materials, and who helped start the '764' group.

Baron Cain Martin

A 21-year-old from Tucson, Arizona who was accused of being the ringleader of the '764' network in Arizona and was charged with a variety of crimes including conspiring to provide material support to terrorists.

Alexis Aldair Chavez

A 19-year-old from San Antonio, Texas who pleaded guilty to racketeering and multiple acts relating to the sexual exploitation of children, and was accused of being an administrator of a network called '8884' that was linked to the '764' group.

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What’s next

The FBI says it will continue its investigation into the '764' group and related networks, working to identify and arrest more perpetrators across the country.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for increased online safety education and monitoring for children and teens, as well as greater coordination between law enforcement, technology companies, and communities to combat the growing threat of violent extremist groups exploiting vulnerable youth.